Dunn Vineyards

Dunn Vineyards, nestled in the picturesque hills of Howell Mountain in Angwin, California, is a family-owned winery that has been producing terroir-driven Cabernet Sauvignon since 1979. The winery was founded by Randy Dunn, a respected winemaker whose passion for nuanced and balanced wines has been the guiding principle of the vineyard's operations.

The winery is situated at elevations ranging from 1,400 to 2,000 feet, allowing the vines to bask in the generous sunlight above the fog line, which results in a longer and more even ripening period. This unique position within the Napa Valley appellation contributes to the distinct character of the wines, showcasing the intense, deep fruit and sturdy tannins that Howell Mountain wines are known for.

Covering approximately 200 acres, with around 42 acres under vine, Dunn Vineyards embraces sustainable farming practices, aiming to uphold the integrity of the land while producing high-quality grapes. The vineyards are planted primarily with Cabernet Sauvignon, and Dunn is renowned for the powerful yet elegantly structured wines that arise from these meticulously cared for vines.

The estate's flagship offering, the Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon, is celebrated for its depth of flavor and aging potential. The vineyard's elevation and volcanic soils combine to produce a wine that is both complex and concentrated, with deep notes of dark fruit such as cassis and blackberry, alongside hints of mint, savory herbs, and graphite, often underpinned by firm tannins and a well-integrated oak presence.

Dunn Vineyards is also known for its limited production of a Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, which sources fruit both from Howell Mountain and the valley floor. This blend captures the elegance of the valley's terroir while maintaining the structure and depth that the estate's fans adore.

The winery largely eschews the limelight, focusing on the craft of winemaking rather than marketing. Tastings and visits are intimate and typically by appointment only, ensuring a personal experience that reflects the Dunn family's commitment to hospitality and the sharing of their wine-making philosophy.

Their winemaking facilities are unpretentious and focused on functionality over aesthetics, which aligns with Randy Dunn's straightforward and no-nonsense approach to winemaking. The wines are aged in French oak barrels and are known for their potential to evolve gracefully over decades, a testament to the patience and foresight that goes into each vintage.

Randy Dunn’s legacy of winemaking has been passed down to the next generation, as his son Mike Dunn now plays a significant role in the vineyard's operations, ensuring that the quality and traditions of Dunn Vineyards will continue to thrive for years to come.

For wine enthusiasts seeking not just a bottle of wine, but a piece of Napa Valley's winemaking history and a taste of the artistry that goes into creating a true expression of a place, Dunn Vineyards represents a singular experience in luxury wine.